Machinery drive with IP66 launched

A variable speed drive for machinery applications that demand a high ingress protection (IP) has been launched by ABB, saving time and money by avoiding the need to design a special enclosure.

Part of the ABB general machinery drives range, the new drive is rated from 0.37 to 7.5 kW with IP66. Such a high ingress protection enables the enclosed drive to be used in screws, mixers, pumps, fans and conveyers in places where the machine is exposed to dust, moisture, high pressure washing and cleaning chemicals. Industries that will benefit include food and beverage, textile, ceramics, pulp and paper as well as the water industry.

For example, the drive's hygienic design and use of materials meeting current hygiene standards (EN 1672-2), means that the drive traps no bacteria and can withstand frequent washing. The drive is certified by NSF International for special purpose food equipment and devices.

Other features designed for moisture and dust intensive areas include a user control panel housed within a plastic window. Furthermore, the drive uses natural convection for cooling, eliminating the need for an external cooling fan.

A benefit for the hygienic environments in which this drive can be used is that the die cast aluminium chassis is painted in white and features a glass reinforced polycarbonate cover. The drive has smooth, slanted surfaces to ensure water drains away. The drive"s cover also features a molded gasket, which fits precisely within a machined groove, thereby eliminating dirt collection. The wall mounted drive can be located close to the process and the operator.

The heat sink's cooling fins are completely open from top to bottom, allowing easy washing and ensuring no dirt adheres to the surfaces.

The drive features an optional maintenance switch for fast shutdown and safety. Should the drive or motor need maintaining, they can be isolated from the network, ensuring the drive and motor are safe to work on.